Captivated

Salvatore

Luca and I fully understood Angelina’s emotions. I could still recall our parents telling us about some of the fights they’d endured with demons. We’d also assisted fellow Hybrids in the same situation as we’d faced that day. One day, we’d sit Angelina down and tell her of how the violent battles weren’t the most pleasant.

“I think we should allow her to bathe alone. Then we can give her the closure she needs.”

Luca was right. We entered through the kitchen because we knew Michael and Diane would be there waiting for us. Diane in particular would be concerned for all of us, especially Angelina. There was surprise when we noted our parents were also present. Our mother and Diane went directly to Angelina, fussing over her, the three of them sobbing and hugging.

“You have done well today. All three of you,” our father declared, embracing us.

“Father, we need to give Angelina closure.”

“I know, Salvatore. That is why we are here. We’ve already spoken with Clement, and he agrees. He is very taken with your mate after meeting her at the ceremony.”

We understood that this request was very rarely granted. If it was at all possible, I sensed our love for our mate growing even more.

“Angelina, can we have a minute, please?”

She glanced from me to Luca and nodded. We took her hands and led her outside. Once in the fresh air, we took to the skies and went to the remotest part of our land, well away from the house. We stood on top of a little hill.

“Why are we here?” she asked. She sounded tired.

“Just stay still and wait,” Luca whispered.

* * *

Angelina

Being hugged and fussed over by Diane and Isabella was the best therapy for me. Two loving mothers were just what I needed. I was surprised when my mates took me away from their comforting presence. And now we stood on top of a hill, when all I wanted was a cup of tea, a hot bath, and then bed with Luca and Salvatore. Standing outside in the late afternoon was not what I’d imagined.

In front of me, the air began to shimmer. I became concerned that it might be a demon come to seek revenge for what we’d done to Viktor and his minions. But then I remembered that our home was protected against such invasions. The warmth from Luca and Salvatore permeated my skin as their arms snaked around my waist.

I could see forms emerging from within the shimmering air. Before me stood two people I never expected to see again. Their forms weren’t corporeal; I could see right through them. A strangled cry slipped from me as I watched Cassie and Jake stand before me, smiles on their lips.

“Cassie?”

She stepped forward. I wanted to reach out and embrace her but knew she wasn’t really there.

“It’s me, Angelina, and Jake.”

Tears fell uncontrollably from my eyes. “I’m so sorry. Oh, God. I’m to blame.” I hung my head as my shame covered me.

“Sweetie, this wasn’t your fault. Viktor is the only one to blame.”

“But… but what you went through.” I looked from Cassie to Jake. “What he did to both of you…”

“It’s okay. Those memories have gone. We’re moving on now, to spend eternity together. Like you and your hot guys.” She giggled.

It reminded me of all the happy times we’d shared, laughing about men and our hopes and dreams for the future. I was happy to know that their souls had been saved and they could finally move on and find peace. Sadness gripped my heart.

“I won’t see you ever again, will I?” More tears bubbled up in my already swollen eyes.

“No, sweetie. But you’ve been given this chance to see us one final time. We’re happy and at peace.”

Jake moved forward, took Cassie’s hand, and kissed the back of it. The loving look they shared warmed my heart.

“I’ll take care of her, I promise.” He grinned at me.

“I’m so happy you’re happy,” I murmured.

“Yes, we are. And I’m happy for you too. I love you, Angelina. You have a wonderful life ahead of you.”

“I love you, too, Cassie.”

They waved and smiled and then their images shimmered and vanished before my eyes. I sank to my knees and sobbed. I was happy for them, but I was going to miss them so much. Without a word, my mates held my hands, and we took to the skies, heading directly to our private floor.

“We should go back to the kitchen. Your parents, Diane and Michael are…”

“Hush, bella. They will understand.”

“Luca’s right. Our parents will stop by tomorrow. They will want to make sure their daughter is safe and happy.”

“How was it that I got to see Cassie and Jake?”

“Ah,” said Salvatore as they sat on either side of me on the bed. “Special dispensation from Clement. He has a soft spot for you. This only happens on rare occasions. He understood that you’d never fully rest until you had closure. So…”

“So, he let me see my best friend before she crossed over.” I sobbed, unable to form more words.

No more words were spoken. They ran a bath for us, and together, we slipped into the warm, bubbly water. They held me gently. This wasn’t a sexual act, but one to bring me comfort and love.

Later, in the deep of night after making love, we snuggled close together under the covers in our big bed. A short time ago, I was just a normal young woman. I worked hard, partied hard, and thought I’d be single forever. Now, I was immortal and fighting a battle of good against evil to keep the humans and other good beings safe from demons. Now, I had the love of two men, whom I loved back equally. Now, I had responsibilities that I never knew existed. My infinite life was going to be a happy and exciting one.